Save MONEY towards your future Walt Disney World Vacation by using Rakuten to earn cash back for all your online shopping and purchase discounted Disney Gift Cards
Here’s How:
How exciting is it when your quarterly Rakuten check arrives from all of your daily online shopping? As soon as I get mine, I get online to see where I can find the best discount on getting a DISNEY GIFT CARD to put towards my future Walt Disney World Vacation! If you don’t already know, you can book your Walt Disney World Vacation around a year in advance and make payments as often you can, to have the vacation PAID OFF before you even arrive! Or if you need more time to save up and pay for a Disney World Vacation start stocking up on Disney Gift Cards – they NEVER expire.
Click here to sign up with Rakuten to start earning money while shopping!
Money * Funds * Cash * Coins * Bucks * Bills…. it all means the same thing and has been tight for most people lately, so every cent saved counts and it can go a long way. It is never a good idea to go into debt over a vacation so the best thing to do is save for it and have it paid off before it even starts.
I save money by ordering my Disney Gift Cards online (through Rakuten of course) through either Target or BJ’s. (Sam’s Club and Costco have around the same member pricing as BJ’s.) However, pricing is not set in stone and is subject to change at any time.
Disney Gift Cards can be used for MORE than your next Disney Vacation in Florida but also California, and also online at Shop Disney, any Disney Stores located near you, and through most stores and restaurants located through the Disney Parks, Disney Resorts and at Disney Springs!
Using your gift card online at Shop Disney? Shop through Rakuten and get cash back for your next gift card!
With this Rakuten check (as I usually do) I went on BJ’s website to check pricing on a $100 Disney Gift Card…. but then I thought, “Hmmm, well the Target Red Card lets you save 5% when purchasing by using your Red Card – why not check that out?!“…. low and behold Target was cheaper by using my Red Card! As soon as the charge is posted I will pay the card off with the money from my Rakuten check.
HOT TIP: Learn how Disney Visa can help save you MONEY
If you do not have a Target Red Card and you DO have a DISNEY CHASE VISA take these steps to earn the most amount of money:
- First go through Rakuten and then sign into your BJ’s account. Add preferred Disney Gift Card to cart. (Sometimes Rakuten does not offer cash back at BJ’s lately so you may want to look into a wholesale club that it does offer cash back through Rakuten)
- Order your discounted Disney Gift Card ( a lesser cost than the true value of the card) by using your Disney Visa
- Earn Reward Bucks TO BE USED at Disney on your vacation or while saving for your vacation from your Disney Visa. Use the Disney Visa while on vacation to start earning reward bucks for your next Disney Vacation. Use your Disney Visa at any authorized Disney Store for a discount on your total bill, as well as at MOST Disney owned restaurants at the parks and in Disney Springs.
- Pay off your Disney Visa as soon as the total is posted!!!
- ** Disney Visa allows vacation financing: up to 6 months interest free for your vacation package**
So yes you are buying a $100 Disney Gift Card – worth $100 for only $95.00 through Target or at different pricing through BJ’s. They also sell Disney Gift Cards for $25.00, $50.00, $150.00 and $500.00. The latest $500 Disney Gift Card is available at BJ’s for $479.00 – that is a pretty good deal.
I really enjoy these fun little ways of saving some cash $$ here and there for Disney!
What are some of your ideas and tips for saving money for vacation?
Click here to see an older post about saving for your next Disney World Vacation!
Heading to Galaxy’s Edge at Disney’s Hollywood Studios? Ideas for Star Wars Inspired Looks
Planning a trip to visit Galaxy’s Edge at Disney’s Hollywood Studios soon? Here are some EASY non-over-the-top Star Wars Inspired Looks you can create for cute photo ops.
If you’re already a Star Wars Fan you probably already have some cute clothing to represent. Need some makeup ideas to match? Not to worry. There are plenty of easy looks you can create without having to spend a fortune or go over the top.
Use the makeup you’ve already got! No one wants to pack anything extra than needed when visiting Walt Disney World anyway. I know that from all the years we have been visiting we love taking cute photo ops whenever available and hoping that character meet and greets return sooner than later!
R2-D2 INSPIRED MAKE UP
This isn’t too hard as R2-D2 are basic colors of blue and white -which anyone that wears makeup already has in their stock.
Always remember to prep and prime your face prior to makeup application – especially necessary now when visiting WDW in the heat and with masks!
Always make sure to stay on top of washing your brushes for the most optimal outcome
Current Prep and Prime:
- Oil of Olay Regenerating Lotion with SPF 15
- IT Cosmetics Confidence in an Eye Cream
- ELF Poreless Putty Primer
As we head into summer I will make sure to add a primer that includes an SPF of 30 like Mabelline’s Master Prime Octinoxate Sunscreen SPF 30.
I also just ordered some ***Oil of Olay REGENERIST Mineral Sunscreen Face Moisturizer Zinc Oxide SPF 30****for defense against the summer sun and also ***Olay Regenerist Retinol Max Night Face Moisturizer***.
(Links to items listed below)
The foundation I used for these particular looks are Loreal’s Infallible 24 Hour Freshware Foundation which is an awesome foundation – smells so refreshing.
Foundation that I really recommend for Disney World heat anyway would be MAC Cosmetics Prolongwear Nourishing Waterproof Foundation followed by Dermablend Setting Powder.
Eye Shadow Pallets and Foundation Used in Looks Below
- Tarte Tartelette Juicy Amazonian Clay
- L’Oreal Infallible 24 Hour Fresh Wear Foundation Lightweight
- ELF Eyeshadow Pallet Rose Gold – Nude
- Mabelline Nudes of New York
- Hard Candy Navy Blue Shimmer Shadow
- MAC Cosmetics Silver Pigment
Darth Vader Inspired Look
I definitely like myself in the R2-D2 look with the blues or the Ahsoka tans over the black Vader coloring… Personal preference ☺️😄
Makeup I recommend for Hot Sunny Disney World / Universal Orlando Etc
- MAC Cosmetics Pro Longwear Nourishing Waterproof Foundation
- Dermablend Loose Setting Powder
- Too Faced Cosmetics Better than Sex Mascara
- Too Faced Cosmetics Better than Sex Mascara WATERPROOF to seal in your mascara
- Revlon Color Stay Liquid Eyeliner
You Don’t Have To Spend A Lot of Money!
For Sith Look, I used the darker blue ELF shadow all the way to the right on the pallet listed above. I didn’t want to go with completely black because that would not look good with my skin tone. I think grey’s and dark blues are perfect for that.
As you can see I do not currently own any pallets that have grey – because typically I do not like the way I look / my skin tone with grey.
I will have more pictures / ideas and looks after our upcoming trip! Stay tuned!
Links for Makeup!
Maybelline Eyeshadow – https://amzn.to/3xT8QEN
ELF Eye Shadow – https://amzn.to/33C14l7
MAC Longwear Foundation – https://amzn.to/2RwNUmr
Dermablend Setting Powder – https://amzn.to/3ut0Lo9
Loreal Infallible Freshwear Foundation – https://amzn.to/3nUOHK9
Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara – https://amzn.to/3nYokDe
ELF Poreless Putty Primer – https://amzn.to/33lnDKF
Here is the link for the Ahsoka inspired look!
Are you planning a trip to Disney World this summer? Read my resort recommendation here!
NEED TIPS FOR SAVING FOR DISNEY!? CLICK HERE!
Here are my packing necessities for travel in the summer heat!
In Honor Of May the Fourth: Celebrate With Me! Star Wars Day Inspired Clothing, Looks and Collections
Star Wars Day: May the Force Be With You
Who else is celebrating today? Wishing we were at Disney’s Hollywood Studios at Galaxy’s Edge Today! Maybe next year!
Star Wars Inspired Makeup For May the Fourth
Don’t have any fancy makeup to work with? Don’t worry about it – use what you’ve got!
It is time to put our Star Wars Style to the test! This week is a fun and exciting week with the most fantastic day to celebrate Star Wars “May the Fourth”. Whether you have an actual event or party to attend to or you’re simply participating online you can really use your own makeup to manipulate any looks you want to create.
Ahsoka
The first inspired look that I wanted to try to manipulate is Ahsoka who is a Jedi since my first Instagram post tomorrow will be Jedi – Inspired. The first thing I did was venture into Pinterest researching Ahsoka inspired makeup looks. You could also search for Jedi inspired makeup looks.
Plans to roam the Disney Parks on May the 4th? Work with what you’ve got!
We all try not to overpack when we are hitting up the Disney Parks but one of my priorities is not to forget my makeup. I am sure Galaxy’s Edge at Hollywood Studios will be filled with all sorts of fascinating Star Wars characters on May the 4th and will maybe hold some interesting surprises. We will have to wait and find out. If you are going to be there and want to join in on the fun, try to work with whatever makeup you packed. Think of which character you would like to look like and search Pinterest for ideas – I like to type in “Star Wars Inspired Makeup” in the search.
First
I used a slightly tanner foundation (that I have for when I use self-tan or for the summer months) since Ahsoka is so tan herself which is the Loreal Infallible 24 hour Fresh Wear foundation number 475. Then I used my Derma Blend Setting Powder color Cool Beige to set the makeup. I did not utilize my concealer like I normally do.
Next
For the Ahsoka face decorations I did not have any white paint… so the only thing I thought of to try using was my Revlon Photoready Candid Concealer. The tip of it actually worked pretty well. I don’t consider it perfect or even close to being professional but for some fun photos – why not? I was not able to apply any white eyeshadow either because it just wasn’t working.
Last
Using my Sephora Pro Pigment Pallet in Warm, I used a mix of the Burnt Umber color and Cocoa for under my eyes, down the sides of my nose and above the funky cheek design since these colors are a little darker than your typical bronze. Then of course some eyeliner and mascara and don’t forget to deepen those eyebrows a touch. My upper lid eyeliner is Revlon Color Stay Brown Liquid Eyeliner. The lipstick I have on is a combination of Loreal Colour Riche Nudes For Life lip-liner and the MAC Cosmetics Lipstick color Fast Play Amplified Lipstick.
Check back in later for more Star Wars inspired makeup looks later this week!
Check out when we went on the Rise of the Resistance ride at Disney’s Hollywood Studios in Galaxy’s Edge! SO AMAZING!
GIFT IDEAS FOR MOTHER’S DAY
My most recent DIY inexpensive idea for myself as the Mom (it was was a gorgeous day) so we drove down to the beach to take pics. Unfortunately I forgot my tripod – ugh – but the pics still came out gorgeous. Pick a day leading up to Mother’s Day so you can have some pictures printed as gifts.
We also had dinner with an ocean view and made a beautiful afternoon out of it!
Some ideas for beautiful family shots:
- Waterfall – research on the All Trails App for waterfalls in your area
- Lake (go late afternoon when the sun is about to set for less squinting)
- Ocean
- Scenic Outlook (can find in trip advisor)
- Places similar to Grounds For Sculpture NJ
- Botanical Gardens
- Disney World Magic Kingdom Castle or Animal Kingdom Park
- Bridge with a scenic overlook
- Marina makes a great place for a photo op
- Grand staircases at historical mansions
- Grounds at historical mansions
- Colored wall
- Secret Gardens
- In Front of a great Water Fountain
- Nature Park / Wildlife Refuge
- Vineyard
- Open Field
- The Bronx Zoo has some amazing photo ops if you live near by
Lasts Minute Trip To Disney? As of today almost all of May is booked up for theme park reservations. Get with a travel agent ASAP to see if they can help.
Disney photographers take some amazing Mother’s Day Photos!
With having to make theme park reservations, it is really a good idea to book your Disney World 2 months in advance right now. Dining Reservations open up 60 days in advance and they are limited due to limited capacity so it would beneficial to book prior to that so you have open availability. However if you can only book at close proximity using a travel agent – at no extra cost to you – might have some extra tips for snagging those park reservations that can be hard to get.
If you are heading to Disney for Mother’s Day usually the parks hand out flowers to the Moms on this glorious day. I have some of my most cherished photographs from our Mother’s Day Trip in 2015. We spent Mother’s Day at Animal Kingdom Park.
Other Mother’s Day Gift Ideas:
- Picnic – with everything packed and ready by everyone BUT the Mother
- DIY Essential Oils Room Spray – Lavender and Lemon with Witch Hazel or Distilled Water
- New Watering Can
- Surprise Weekend Getaway to places like Cape May, NJ or possibly like Hershey Park, PA
- Caricature / Portrait of the kids
- Birthstone Necklace of all the kids’ birthdays
- Coach Purse
- Dooney and Bourke Disney Bag
- Outside dining at a restaurant with a water view
If anything a Mom could really use is to be able to sleep in, wake up to a clean home, not have to put up with any fighting or bad moods of any kind and to not have to cook once on Mother’s Day. Dad’s whip out the grill and get to work – especially if you are having company over – you can do it. Make the kids pitch in!
Here is a link to another Mother’s Day Gift idea – click here
What are your ideas for Mother’s Day?
Planning a summer vacation? Here is my latest video on Summer Packing Essentials
www.etsy.com/listing/962899471/vaccinated-parks-pin-back-button
I’m so excited – I just ordered us “Disney World I’m Vaccinated Pins” off of Etsy!
A Vacation is an Investment in Your Family
Trying to decide on whether to take the vacation? Here are some things to keep in mind.
DISCLAIMER: I am by no means responsible for any decisions you may make, any vacation that you could take that could go downhill – what is stated below are all of m opinions.
I recently heard by a person that I absolutely love listening to, talk about Disney DVC and she said no matter what you’re doing for vacation, that a VACATION IS AN INVESTMENT IN YOUR FAMILY and I thought wow how true is this. This has been my life motto, something that I have been living by since having babies.
Got little kids? Big Kids? Afraid of making the plunge? DO IT. This is precious time you will never get back. It doesn’t have to be perfect or expensive – you’re family won’t remember the imperfections they will remember the adventure taken with you. It is a way to easily CONNECT and bond with your family.
Issues financially? Frugal family? Wanting to save for future? It all comes down to how much vacations mean to you also… there are ways to save for it and budget for it. If it’s that important to either spouse then it should be something that is alotted for.
With all the hustle and bustle of the normal day-to-day work and school, the best thing you can do is take time for plain family fun making memories. Everyone needs time to JUST HAVE FUN WITH THEIR FAMILIES. Your children need time with you, just you for enjoyment, having fun together, making memories together which you can provide each and every single day but vacation is unique and it helps us rest, recover and grow inside – together.
MY MOST CHERISHED MEMORIES AS A CHILD
I am someone who grew up with a family who had a camper in-tow; my Dad was so fortunate and lucky enough to take all of his vacation time at once – 3 weeks every July. We could take our time venturing off into many of the United States and saw places like Yellowstone National Park, Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse, Bay of Fundy in Canada, Chincoteague Island in Virginia, Myrtle Beach SC, Outer Banks NC, some parts of Maine. We always went to Lake George in NY every summer because my Dad had an aunt that lived in Ticonderoga NY. We even ventured down to Disney World when I was in second grade. THESE TRAVELS ARE MY MOST CHERISHED MEMORIES AS A CHILD.
My Grandmother used to travel the world with her twin sister and other sisters and growing up I didn’t think I would be one to enjoy traveling but when I had a family of my own I learned how really special it is and how exciting.
PASSING THIS ONTO MY CHILDREN
With everything that happened in the world during 2020 and how we went into shutdown / lockdown I felt so fortunate, thankful and blessed that I was able to have taken my children on as many vacations as they have been on. Yes we are truly a Disney World family – we enjoy it ever so much. My husband and I went to Disney World on our honeymoon and the year after, and I just could not wait to get our children there. We did not start taking them there until my youngest Nicky was 2 years old.
We did however vacation down in Wildwood Crest every summer – we live in North NJ. There are times where I wish we had branched out but we had some bigger financial struggles when our children were so small so that was all we could afford and I am grateful for the wonderful memories we made down there. My children love the water, the ocean and swimming – we are all fish.
We started taking our children to Disney in Spring 2013 when Mikey just turned 5 and Nicky was 2 heading towards 3. Since my husband and I were married late April we experienced the amazing weather Florida has in April. Since then we have taken our children in 2015, 2016, 2017, and three times in 2019 – well the last time in 2019 was New Year’s Eve so we were technically there in 2020.
DAY TRIPS COUNT TOO – CREATING WELL CULTURED CHILDREN
WE were also fortunate enough to have visited several zoos, aquariums, museums, water parks, theme parks like Sesame Place and Dorney Park. We were even lucky enough to have had short vacations to Hershey Park.
Day trips into NYC to see the Broadway plays Aladdin and the Rockettes were absolutely incredible day trips. We got to explore parts of NYC it was incredible. So much fun and so many amazing memories!
During the time of the quarantine I felt so lucky and grateful that we were fortunate enough to have taken our kids so many wonderful places and had the experiences we had. Especially since we lost a year of traveling with them. Nicky was 9 going on 10 and Mikey had just turned 12 when the Corona Virus hit the US.
LIST OF PLACES I HAVE TRAVELED TO / VACATION IDEAS
- Yellowstone National Park
- Mount Rushmore / Crazy Horse
- Myrtle Beach South Carolina
- Dollywood – TN
- Nashville – TN
- Outer Banks North Carolina
- Busch Gardens Williamsburg / Historic Jamestown
- Lake George / Ticonderoga NY
- Chincoteague Island Virginia
- Disney World – stayed in Jelly Stone Campground
- Bay of Fundy Canada
- Maine Beaches
- Howe Caverns NY
PLACES WE HAVE TAKEN OUR CHILDREN BOTH DAY TRIPS and VACATION IDEAS
- Disney World
- Legoland Florida
- Wildwood Crest, and Boardwalk
- Cape May NJ
- Sunset Beach Cape May NJ
- Cape May Lighthouse NJ
- Hershey Park PA
- Dorney Park PA
- Busch Kill Falls PA
- Land of Make Believe NJ
- Sesame Place PA
- Morris Museum NJ
- The Museum of Natural History NY
- Liberty State Park NJ
- Aladdin NYC (Broadway) for when that opens back up
- The Rockettes NYC (Broadway)
- Legoland Discovery Center Yonkers NY
- Adventure Aquarium NJ
- Maritime Aquarium CT
- Cape May Zoo
- Bronx Zoo
- Turtle Back Zoo
- Space Farms Zoo
- Philadelphia Zoo
- Liberty Science Center NJ
- Van Saun Zoo and Park in Bergen County NJ
- Brook Hallow Barnyard in Boonton NJ
- Point Pleasant Boardwalk, NJ
- Jenkinson’s Aquarium Point Pleasant Boardwalk, NJ
- Seaside Heights Boardwalk, NJ
- Sandy Hook Gateway National Recreation Area, NJ
- Knoebels Amusement Park, PA
AM I JEALOUS OF EVERYONE’S UPDATED KITCHEN AND BATHROOMS?
Well heck yes I would love to have a beautiful home updated with the newest appliances, gorgeous flooring, kitchens and bathrooms but would I ever take back our travels instead – NO, NEVER!
To the people who can afford both GOD BLESS THEM. Can we afford to both? NO. Do I regret it? Absolutely without a doubt NO. We can always update the house and have a beautiful home when our children are grown but will I care about it then, probably not because I enjoy adventuring too much.
YOU DON’T JUST HAVE TO GO TO DISNEY WORLD
As much as we love Disney World it is a small fortune every time we go. There are so many other places to vacation with your family that is more than half the cost.
We just all LOVE going to Disney – there is nothing so magical and nothing like it in the world. My husband also does not like the beach and cannot swim so Disney is a place where we are ALL happy. We also love the dining aspect of Disney World.
Disney World is not just your typical theme park. It is not just rides, but Disney World is encompassed of SMELLS, SIGHTS, SOUNDS, TASTES, EXPERIENCES, EDUCATION, – really a full body experiences. This is known as the “DISNEY BUBBLE” people speak of and you won’t really know what it is until you experience it for yourself, staying inside a Disney World Resort.
YOU WILL ALWAYS HAVE THOSE TREASURED MEMORIES AND TIME SPENT TOGETHER 💓
This is time – now, right now. You are not going to get this time back. Money will always be ready to be made. Work will be there when you get back. No matter where you choose to go, you are making the most cherished memories with precious time that you will treasure forever. I am a firm believer in experiences over things and I just love our family time spent together because our children are growing so fast – I cannot believe how fast time is going.
If you’re worried about distancing there are plenty of options to still vacation like for example maybe visiting the Smokey Mountains, or a beach vacation – so many adventures out there to explore!
What are your ideas for family trips this spring and summer?!
Check out my blog on Travel Necessities for Summer 2021 by clicking here!
Here is my vlog on Summer Travel Necessities:
It says for people who have POTS but this video is really for everyone since it will be a summer of wearing masks in the heat – we all need extra tips for keeping cool this summer!
“Adopting A Senior” on FB?
Adopting A Senior Can Brighten a High School Senior’s World
GIFT IDEAS HERE
It is now April 2021 and the high school seniors across the U.S. are missing out on so much of what they would have been enjoying if this pandemic never hit. No senior proms, no senior dinners, no senior dances, no senior trips. UGH What can we do to help make it a little more memorable?! I just did my FIRST round of Adopt a Senior Gifts! I chose 3 high school seniors from our town (usually there is a group on FB where you can “adopt“)- one of them happens to be one of our families’ best friends and the others we know from other occasions.
FIRST, USE CANVA.COM FOR SOME FREE GRAPHICS TO CREATE PERSONALIZED CARDS
I always go to http://www.canva.com for creating some free designs of my own. There are images that you can pay for but when you’re trying to be frugal, I just use what is available for free. You can create whatever size you like and save it to your computer. You can insert your own pictures as well.
SECOND, USE STAPLES TO PRINT FROM-THE-HEART CREATION
Since we are always out of ink and our printer never works all that well, I like to go through Rakuten to send over your creations to Staples.com and have them print it out. When you are on http://www.staples.com and go to the drop down for printing services: then choose Document Print from the drop down menu – I like to choose Simple Print and from there you click start project and just follow the steps for uploading with all of your choices. Your documents are usually ready in the same day and you can choose better quality paper like card stock or glossy thick stock.
Click on this link here to create a Rakuten Account to start saving money while shopping!
https://www.rakuten.com/r/VBRAGA?eeid=28187
Then you simply choose Staples and you will get a percentage back on what your paying to have printed!
These are some of the creations I have made so far:
FIRST ROUND OF GIFTS GO WITH THE “YOU’RE A SMART COOKIE THEME”
So I wanted to do more than one round of gifts – right now I am thinking its going to be 3 or 4 by the last one. I will do either 1 or 2 in May and then the last one in June. Yesterday, April 23, I just dropped off the first gift which was the “YOU’RE A SMART COOKIE” theme. I picked up some bigger snack packs of random cookies and some chocolates. The Dollar Tree had so many excellent graduation decorations! I bought these little plastic plates to make a gift basket on. 5 plates for 1 dollar.
These treats are just a little something, to help the kids smile.
After I had everything put together, I left them at their doorsteps for a surprise.
As I complete the following gifts I will share with you but for now I cannot disclose that information because I do not wish to ruin any future surprises!
Mothers Day is right around the corner! CLICK HERE FOR MY ULTIMATE MOTHERS DAY GIFT IDEA!
Do you have any travel coming up? Check out my packing necessities video here:
Read my recommended travel necessities in my blog post by clicking here!
Your Bronx Zoo Itinerary
Don’t want to stand in line? Read this!
Your Bronx Zoo Itinerary:
Now with Covid regulations the Bronx Zoo is doing an amazing job at limiting the amount of people walking through their bigger exhibits but it is causing lines. Read more to find out. Masks are required at all times.
Disclaimer: I am not responsible for your trip going wayward. These are just my suggestions and opinions. I am in no way paid by Disney or the Bronx Zoo. I am only paid through products you may buy on Amazon.
If there is anything a Disney Addict knows, it is how to do Disney so everyone has the most magical wonderful vacation possible. This leads to the creation of learning how to do everything that you do to maximize your time and fun.
Bronx Zoo Monorail Only Runs May through October!
This is ultimately the best thing ever about the Bronx Zoo! At Disney level uniqueness and magic, the Bronx Zoo Monorail is a fantastic ride through “Asia” showing off some of the greatest “big” animals in the Eastern Hemisphere. Similar to the Kilimanjaro Safari at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Park, this monorail ride not only gives you an amazing view of so many cool animals but it also entails an expert guide who drives the train while pointing out interesting facts and information during this expedition. While riding on this adventure, you will see animals LIKE elephants, pandas, zebras and rhinos.
Each of the following exhibits are absolutely phenomenal, pristine and clean but do take time to walk through and see all there is to see!
Arrive to Bronx Zoo at opening – usually 10am. Go onto the Bronx Zoo website from your phone and click “I’m in the zoo”. There you will have a map of the zoo in the palm of your hands.
If you’re going between May – end of October I would head straight to ASIA – to hop on the Monorail before the lines fill up.
When you get off the Monorail there are plenty of drinks and snack vendors around if you need a break.
Next Head to TIGER MOUNTAIN.
This was by far the longest line we witnessed later in the day!! It had a line form around lunchtime and then it went way back by 2pm!
NOTE: There are shuttles located around the park – check the map. It was a fun, relaxing, refreshing break to the other side of the zoo.
Next make a direct route to the CONGO EXHIBIT.
The Congo exhibit is another very popular and fascinating habitat for the apes and gorillas.
After you have hit these 3 main exhibits then I would find it safe to say that it is ok to venture onto the other animal habitats in all the areas.
Map Out Your Day Before You Go.
I highly recommend looking at the map, knowing where you are going to park in advance. This way you can plan out your route to save time and hit the 3 most popular exhibits that really make this zoo remarkable. It is expensive to attend this zoo, so you are going to want to make the most out of your day. I also suggest staying until closing and then finding a restaurant not far for dinner and let the rush hour traffic pass – since its a highly populated area. Just like at Disney, if you don’t see it all – it is ok. Make sure that you see what is important for your family to see.
Pack lunches and snacks to save money!
I have a big Disney World backpack that I take on all of our adventures. It has cup holders on the sides and several compartments that I have extra masks, band aides etc. The only thing we purchased besides lunch for my husband and I were ICY (slushies) for the kids and an iced coffee for me on the way home.
What was in my backpack?
- Electrolyte Waters
- Diet Coke (for my husband and I)
- Apple Juice travel bottles
- Sandwiches
- cut up strawberries in Tupperware
- grapes in Tupperware
- Salty snacks like pretzels, pirate booty and potato chips for my POTSY child
- Extra Salt Sticks
- Children and Adult Pain Killers
- Bug Spray
- SPF
- Extra Masks
- Hats
- Sunglasses
Just like Disney – hydrate yourself before you even venture out! Once you feel thirsty – it is too late.
MAP IT OUT BEFORE YOU GO.
Map out your route going to the Bronx Zoo! Going there from North Jersey, our GPS had us take the George Washington but for the way home we took the Palisades Parkway and then went over the former Tappan Zee Bridge which is now called the Governor Mario M. Cuomo Bridge. It was really a beautiful ride home.
Do you have any tips for the Bronx Zoo?
The Most Amazing Mother’s Day Gift Yet
Looking for a Mother’s Day Gift that is going to knock the socks off the Mother of your children?
Sometimes the most outstanding gifts can cost little to nothing at all. What Mother doesn’t want to sleep in, have absolutely NO arguments, not cook and have her house cleaned – this is something all the Mother’s crave. Mothers do much for the people they love – 24/7, it never stops and nor do they stop to think about it. So definitely reward her with something so deserving and so touching.
Flowers are beautiful but lets face it – they die. How many knickknacks can we all have to dust? Don’t we all wish that we could travel to Disney World for Mother’s day?! I spent Mother’s Day in 2015 which was probably my most MAGICAL Mother’s Day yet including some of my most adored photographs of my children and I at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Park! But Disney World can be a small fortune, so the following idea will be a smart financial option.
I was asking some of my closest friends what they really desire for Mother’s Day. The subsequent idea was just so heartwarming and touching to hear! My friend’s husband has been keeping a journal from her children for every Mother’s Day since they are babies!
BEGIN A TREASURED KEEPSAKE
Journal To Mom from the Kids written inside every Mother’s Day
As early as you can, whether is scribble or the kids are already 5 years old – start a journal to the amazing Mother of your children at every Mother’s Day so she can look back each year to see how they have grown! This is something she will cherish forever and it really does not cost much to do.
Simple Ideas To Write About:
- how much we love mommy
- my favorite thing about mommy
- why mommy is so pretty
- thanks for all you do mommy
- my favorite memory with mom
- what I look forward to doing with mom
- why mom will always be my best friend
- what flower does mom remind me of
- what color does mom remind me of
- a poem about mom
- mommy hugs mean the world to me
- why I appreciate mom
- how I can always depend on mom
You can always add a picture or drawing inside and make sure you date it!
What are your Mother’s Day plans this year?
Prepping for Vacation?? Check out my vlog on vacation bag essentials!
Read about my more detailed post on Vacation Packing Essentials by clicking here!
Spring Day Trip?
Maybe a mental-health day trip?
Consider Liberty State Park in Jersey City!
We visited Liberty State Park over Spring Break and had an amazing time!
Spring is just a beautiful time for traveling, hiking, day-tripping and anything outdoors really! The weather can be so pleasant and everything is started to bloom.
ALL TRAILS APP
If you have the All Trails App and you search up Liberty State Park which will give you directions on how to get to Liberty State Park and the New York Bay. FREE and easy parking!
NOTE: the only bathrooms we could find that were open were port-a-johns / porta-potties which weren’t the greatest – so bring wipes and your own sanitizing agents.
GIANT AREA
This 3 mile loop has stunning picturesque views of our number one lady, the Statue of Liberty. Provided is a gorgeous paved trail that wraps around the waterline. This path makes for easy physical distancing for safety and to enjoy the sun and air. Great for walking, biking, and photography! Wear your sneakers and be prepared to walk. The park is free to enter, free to park and free to explore! Only the ferries and anything over on Ellis Island / Statue of Liberty have fees.
Liberty State Park was pristine (aside from the Porta-Potties). When I say something is immaculate I mean “Disney clean”. If you are a Disney addict, you will know what I am talking about. There are no other parks in this country as clean and spotless as Disney World and Disneyland. You know how sometimes when you’re at an amazing zoo you might have Disney’s Animal Kingdom Park come to your mind. The water here and being on the boat reminded me of Seven Seas Lagoon – only wishing we were cruising over to Magic Kingdom for the day but perfectly satisfied to have the actual real view we had.
NOTE: we did not come across any food vendors so definitely bring your own food, snacks and drinks as of April 6, 2021.
Continue reading “Spring Day Trip?”
Last Minute DIY Easter Pics
With Covid rules and regulations a lot of people might be skipping out on visiting the Easter Bunny this year but that doesn’t mean you have to skip out on Easter 🐣 Pics 📸 of your kids!
IDEA 1:
Gather up your kids and head up to your nearest State Park. If you are working they are staying open later now, and it is better to go towards the late afternoon anyway – so the sun won’t be shining in their eyes!
The state park idea is fun because the kids can go exploring around the area while you’re doing it or even have a picnic. Throw some quick dresses 👗 on your girls and cute shirts on your boys and let nature do the rest. Try out Portrait Mode on your iPhone!
It was very windy when we went up last week!
IDEA 2:
Take whatever Easter decorations and props you have and head into your own yard for some pretty pics.
*Have a tripod?! Set up your iPhone to take 10 seconds for an automatic pic of you with your family!
IDEA 3:
Have an early Easter Egg hunt and take ACTION pics of your kiddos hunting for eggs – in their nicest attire.
Also if you have Easter Pics from the year prior that never got sent to anyone? We were in Disney World for Easter 2019 and had pics with Mr. and Mrs. Easter Bunny that never went to anyone only because they were taken on Easter while there 🤷♀️
Check out my last post on What Is Going In My Kids’ Easter Baskets HERE!
- Heading to Galaxy’s Edge at Disney’s Hollywood Studios? Ideas for Star Wars Inspired Looks
- In Honor Of May the Fourth: Celebrate With Me! Star Wars Day Inspired Clothing, Looks and Collections
- Star Wars Inspired Makeup For May the Fourth
- GIFT IDEAS FOR MOTHER’S DAY
- (no title)
Spring Day Trip?
Maybe a mental-health day trip?
Consider Liberty State Park in Jersey City!
We visited Liberty State Park over Spring Break and had an amazing time!
Spring is just a beautiful time for traveling, hiking, day-tripping and anything outdoors really! The weather can be so pleasant and everything is started to bloom.
ALL TRAILS APP
If you have the All Trails App and you search up Liberty State Park which will give you directions on how to get to Liberty State Park and the New York Bay. FREE and easy parking!
NOTE: the only bathrooms we could find that were open were port-a-johns / porta-potties which weren’t the greatest – so bring wipes and your own sanitizing agents.
GIANT AREA
This 3 mile loop has stunning picturesque views of our number one lady, the Statue of Liberty. Provided is a gorgeous paved trail that wraps around the waterline. This path makes for easy physical distancing for safety and to enjoy the sun and air. Great for walking, biking, and photography! Wear your sneakers and be prepared to walk. The park is free to enter, free to park and free to explore! Only the ferries and anything over on Ellis Island / Statue of Liberty have fees.
Liberty State Park was pristine (aside from the Porta-Potties). When I say something is immaculate I mean “Disney clean”. If you are a Disney addict, you will know what I am talking about. There are no other parks in this country as clean and spotless as Disney World and Disneyland. You know how sometimes when you’re at an amazing zoo you might have Disney’s Animal Kingdom Park come to your mind. The water here and being on the boat reminded me of Seven Seas Lagoon – only wishing we were cruising over to Magic Kingdom for the day but perfectly satisfied to have the actual real view we had.
NOTE: we did not come across any food vendors so definitely bring your own food, snacks and drinks as of April 6, 2021.
Continue reading “Spring Day Trip?”
Check out my blog post on Summer Travel Essentials by Clicking HERE!
Last Minute Easter Shopping
Home Goods!
Mikey and I ran to Home Goods yesterday afternoon… we were surprised to find LEGO storage boxes that are actual LEGO themselves!
We also spotted 2 MICKEY Mouse plushies!
We spotted 2 Baby Yoda / The Child / Grogu Banks in the children’s section
For some other last minute gifts I am adding to my kids Easter Baskets I am waiting on a few LEGO to come and also waiting on some LED lights for Nicky’s bedroom. Plus they still love to play with Star Wars Light Sabers – so waiting on that as well!
I just need to finish a basket for my parents and my inlaws as well as my nephews!
Happy Easter 🐣🐇🐰 Shopping Everyone!
Continue reading “Last Minute Easter Shopping”
Ditch the typical Easter Basket and try something new!
Easter Basket Hack / Creation
New Easter Basket Creation
Over the weekend I watched a new YouTube Video on where instead of using the typical Easter “Basket”, she was using a new beach towel folded as the base/ basket. When it was finished it looked just like a normal Easter Basket with the cello and all! I decided I was going to try this myself.
I have been saving and reusing the same Easter Baskets since my kids are babies – same cello and all. I just store them in plastic bags but the large baskets do take up a lot of space. I like the new idea of using something that is going to be used instead of a basket that either gets thrown out or takes up too much space.
I attempted the towel idea but after that Kohls haul – I just had too much stuff! So I have this pretty light green plaid wrapping paper left over from my in-law’s’ emerald anniversary and some yellow bows stored in our little craft room that we have. This wrapping paper was not flimsy dollar store paper, but a nice strong paper with brawn to become a basket.
I folded the wrapping paper around the towel as a base/basket taping the sides of the wrapping paper to hold up as a basket.
I did not buy any NEW cello or wrap… I was just trying to use what I had laying around and I realized I did not have enough cello. Oops. I one has cello and the other one is just plain wrapping paper.
I am by no means a perfect crafter… I just try to make things look cute and special. I’m really not artistic, I am only a perfectionist when it comes to makeup. LOL
For the chocolate I reused one of my saved Easter Baskets – old cello and all! lol
I hope I helped give you ideas for different and creative ways of designing Easter Baskets for your loved ones!
Check out my new YOUTUBE video on the Easter Basket Ideas!
What are your ideas?
How are you staying safe for Easter this year?
What Is Going In My Kids’ Easter Baskets
Easter Is Approaching! Need ideas on what to put in your kids’ Easter baskets?
Surprise Disney Gifts!
FYI – I don’t have little kids anymore! My two boys are now a teenager and heading towards 11 years old. They are both in men’s clothing now!
KOHLS HAUL
With Summer approaching quickly and an another unusual summer of having to wear added discomfort with the extra heat of masks, I am determined to find as comfortable of clothing as possible for my kids. Since this summer we will be traveling out and about – as safely as possibly – its necessary to be dressed as comfortable as possible. Now I have been searching Marshalls and Walmart every weekend for their dry-fast materials clothing but haven’t really found much. So as I was meandering around Kohls I found a lot of great Nike, Adidas, and Under Armor cooling athletics wear. These clothes could also be worn IF they go back to school in person this fall and with the giant growth spurt my kids had last year I am really hoping to get 2 summer uses out of them now they are in mens’ medium/large sizes.
If you are able to, this is a great investment of some of the stimulus funds, because even if you do not have a trip planned even just shopping or a stroll in the heat will be uncomfortable.
This wasn’t cheap since these brands rarely ever go on sale and coupons do not apply! One way of ensuring a little money back would be shopping online through Rakuten – at least this way you know you will be getting a little cash back at some point. My kids grew so much over the past year – Mikey is now 13 and Nicky is going on 11 and both are super tall so they are now in a size men’s medium (HOW DID THAT HAPPEN?!) and I am really hoping they make it through next summer too!
GERTRUDE HAWK CHOCOLATE
The kids always have a school fund raiser with a Gertrude Hawk Easter Sale – so we always load up on Easter chocolate from there. Its so delicious as well.
DISNEY FACE MASKS
More face masks from http://www.shopdisney.com – Shop Disney has some excellent breathable masks and have improved a lot since last year.
SURPRISE DISNEY CROCS
I also have some “Baby Yoda” Disney Grogu Crocs that I have had stashed for a while. As soon as I saw them I got them for the kids. They need new Crocs anyway and go along with summer clothing.
Time For The Husband To Get Some New Cooling Clothing
It is past due for my husband to get some comfortable cooling clothing because again it will be hot and it is unfortunate the masks create added body heat. I also bought him a collared Under Armor cooling golf shirt and 2 Under Armor cooling shirts that aren’t as dressy. The hubby is also getting 2 paris of jeans that he really needs and a new pair of workbooks. Can’t forget the sugar free chocolate for my love who has been a diabetic since the age of 7 years old. I also purchased my 3 guys a matching blue cooling shirt from Target. I am excited to try using Peppermint Oil as a cooling agent on the back of the neck.
Easter Basket Hacks
I found this super neat and cool idea on someone else’s YouTube Channel her name is Always Lorna Marie. Her video is about using a new beach towel as an Easter “Basket” instead of using an actual basket because this YouTuber lives in an RV full-time with 4 kids and she does not have the space to save baskets! What a neat and new idea! I think that is an amazing way to live and I love watching her videos on how she packs her bags and preps for parks and vacations. Here is a link to her YouTube video:
Here is a link for MY YOUTUBE Video Discussing my kids’ Easter Basket Kohls Haul!
Since my kids are getting a big amount of clothing this year, I am loving the idea of trying a new beach towel (picture above) as the bottom base of the Easter Basket but I didn’t really copy the towel-basket idea, I sort of made my own make-shift basket with wrapping paper. Find the post on that here: https://familypixiedust.com/2021/03/29/ditch-the-typical-easter-basket-and-try-something-new/
I hope I helped provide you with some ideas for your children’s Easter Baskets this year!
It finally feels like we are growing closer to normal in preparing for the summer with new fresh clothing!
What are your Easter plans?
What are you putting in your family’s Easter Baskets?
Check out my Disney Wardrobe Video by Clicking HERE!
If you would like to know more about planning Walt Disney World Vacations, packing tips, saving tips or anything else please feel free to reach me at victoriabragainvitations@gmail.com
Look for my tips, tricks and Walt Disney World Vlogs on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/user/vbraga429/videos
Drop me a line
victoriabragainvitations@gmail.com
Let’s hang out
- Heading to Galaxy’s Edge at Disney’s Hollywood Studios? Ideas for Star Wars Inspired Looks
- In Honor Of May the Fourth: Celebrate With Me! Star Wars Day Inspired Clothing, Looks and Collections
- Star Wars Inspired Makeup For May the Fourth
- GIFT IDEAS FOR MOTHER’S DAY
- (no title)
What Eye Shadow Pallet Am I Wearing?
Find out the eye shadow pallet I used to achieve this look
Spring is my favorite time to try out new makeup for Spring / Summer looks!
So funny as I took this picture before I went out side to film a YouTube video, my hair was all nice and curly but as soon as I got outside it was so humid that the curl came right out of my hair! Don’t judge here – I am not using a filter so you can see the colors of my eyeshadow.
I am so glad to be rid of winter and moving onto experimenting with new Spring looks. I gave in and bought Tarte’s new Tartelette pallet and also Ulta’s own Everyday Faves.
As amazing as these colors look I honestly have not been that impressed… yea I know – but everyone loves it. At a $45.00 price point, I am not really too thrilled with the way the pigment comes out. I LOVE the look of the colors when I am looking at the pallet, I am just not very convinced. If I am going to invest almost $50.00 in a makeup pallet it better be off the hook!
First I started out prepping and priming my skin, applied my foundation and concealer making sure my eyes were ready to go.
I started out blending happiness across my brow-bone, to raise my “hooded eye”. It looks much darker than it really is.
Then on the outside corners to make my eyes look bigger I blended luscious from the corners of my eyelash line up to the brow bone for a “winged” effect. In addition to this area I blended Tarte’s “dusk” color and also the Ulta pallet’s purple/brownish color seen below that is the bottom row – middle.
For the INNER CORNERS of the eye, I blended Tarte’s water lily color. Then the center of the eye was blended with paradise. The very top, underneath the eyebrow I used Tarte’s wishful. My bottom and top eyeliner is Tarte’s euphoric, followed by mascara.
I am forever sitting and trying new makeup looks and I am always on the hunt for some fresh new ideas!
I always like having what makeup I will be wearing while on vacation figured out ahead of time, this way when I am on the go I can just apply and be on my way. This is one look I will be using throughout the spring and definitely into the summer.
I need to get back to some Spring CLEANING – with a black lab mix, I feel like every other day is spring cleaning! ugh! I just have too many people in my house at all times. YIKES LOL But as we get into the weekend I definitely cannot wait to spend sometime outside!
What are your weekend plans?
- Heading to Galaxy’s Edge at Disney’s Hollywood Studios? Ideas for Star Wars Inspired Looks
- In Honor Of May the Fourth: Celebrate With Me! Star Wars Day Inspired Clothing, Looks and Collections
- Star Wars Inspired Makeup For May the Fourth
- GIFT IDEAS FOR MOTHER’S DAY
- (no title)
Let’s Book A Resort! (Part 1)
Let Me Help You Choose Your Next Walt Disney World Resort. Each week I will pick and write about MY recommended resort for the upcoming Summer months.
Depending on what time of the year you plan on vacation, what resort you pick can make a big difference on the comfort level of your trip.
Disclaimer: these are my personal thoughts and opinions, I am not in any way affiliated with Disney or paid by Disney – I cannot be held responsible for anything that may or could go wrong on your vacation. I have had 9 Disney World Vacations since 2006, and eat, breath and live Disney. I LOVE talking Disney.
YOU’RE GOING TO DISNEY WORLD!!!!!
Heading to Disney World anytime soon or trying to decide for the following year?
Planning out your next Disney World Vacation but trying to decide which resort to stay with? I can help. It…
View original post 1,590 more words
Let’s Book A Resort! (Part 1)
Let Me Help You Choose Your Next Walt Disney World Resort. Each week I will pick and write about MY recommended resort for the upcoming Summer months.
Depending on what time of the year you plan on vacation, what resort you pick can make a big difference on the comfort level of your trip.
Disclaimer: these are my personal thoughts and opinions, I am not in any way affiliated with Disney or paid by Disney – I cannot be held responsible for anything that may or could go wrong on your vacation. I have had 9 Disney World Vacations since 2006, and eat, breath and live Disney. I LOVE talking Disney.
YOU’RE GOING TO DISNEY WORLD!!!!!
Heading to Disney World anytime soon or trying to decide for the following year?
Planning out your next Disney World Vacation but trying to decide which resort to stay with? I can help. It all pretty much depends on you, your traveling companions, budget and the travel party’s health.
Budgeting for a Value Resort?
Disney World has 3, well 4 “Value Resorts” to offer. There is Pop Century (most popular), The All Star Resorts and Art of Animation. The All Star Resorts are comprised of The All Star Movies, The All Star Music and the All Stars Sports. All of the resorts mentioned are very Disney themed and super fun! However they are the smallest of rooms on Disney property but the most affordable. Each has their own quick service food court and super fun themed pools. Art of Animation is considered “Value” because it is geared for families and the 2 double bed rooms in the Little Mermaid Section are the cheapest of rooms but the hardest to get, since there aren’t many. The Lion King section and Nemo section have family suites which sleep 6 people and have 2 bedrooms, but do not be fooled – you will be paying closer to the cost of a deluxe resort for these accommodations.
Traveling During Summer Months? Summer in Florida starts in May and ends around November.
Summer is approaching!
Something to keep in mind:
The Value Resorts are amazingly themed and so incredibly fun but they are not well shaded, and if you do not have a preferred room there is a possibility of having a long walk to your room. So if you are planning a vacation during anytime between the months of June through the end of October keep in mind it is going to be HOT. ALL of these resorts do not have much shade or trees so they are HOT. My family has found that when we travel to Disney during the summer months we try to avoid these resorts. With that being said, if you are traveling anytime between November through April these resorts are absolutely lovely and lively to meet your budget. If you can only travel between these summer months and are only able to stay at one of the value resorts (Excluding Art of Animation) I recommend spending a little more for a preferred room – it will definitely be worth it!
Art of Animation is considered “Value” because it is geared for larger families and the 2 double bed rooms in the Little Mermaid Section are the cheapest of rooms but the hardest to get, since there aren’t many. *NOTE* If you book a Little Mermaid Room, you will have about a *10-15 minute walk *OUTSIDE* from your room to the food/busing* and this extra walking can be tough when you are already putting in a lot of walking inside the parks and it is hot. During the Winter months, this walk may not feel as tough. At Art of Animation at The Lion King section and Nemo section, both have family suites which sleep 6 people (1 master bedroom, 1 murphy bed and 1 pull-out sofa) and have 2 bathrooms which is closer to the food and busing, but do not be fooled – you will be paying closer to the cost of a deluxe resort for these accommodations. We stayed in the Cars section in August of 2016 and while my children loved the resort it was a lot of hot extra walking in the sun and my kids ended up getting heat rash during that trip – it wasn’t the worst thing in the world but it was definitely easier the following year when we stayed at the Animal Kingdom Lodge in 2017.
This week’s Hotel of Choice for Summer Travel:
Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
We all know how quickly those summer Florida rainstorms fly in out of nowhere, it is nice to being lodging at a resort where all the rooms are condensed into 1 main building for convenience, ease and comfort.
It is easier to walk through air conditioned buildings than in the hot Florida summer sun.*
Join Chip and Dale at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge themed to the Pacific North West.
Once again Disney has outdone themselves with another massive and gorgeous lobby with impressive details in all of it’s architecture at the Wilderness Lodge, a Deluxe Resort. ***Avoid heat rash*** by staying here where inside the main building you will find your lobby, restaurants, gift shop and rooms – all while being inside the A/C. A small walk to the boat to get to Magic Kingdom and a quick and easy walk to Disney’s transportation bus stop. Having the boat as an alternate method of transportation makes it all the more magical. Boat rides tend to make it feel a little more like vacation getaway for me anyway! Wilderness Lodge is set to open fully in just a few months, June 2021!
This deluxe resort is the cheapest among the Magic Kingdom Resorts and is well liked by guests. Compared to value resorts: along with your quick service you have 2 additional restaurants plus a lounge. Furthermore, you have Geyser Point Bar and Grill offered as an outdoor dining option which offers breakfast, lunch and dinner with a beautiful view of the lake and your typical pool bar with snacks and refreshments.
At the Wilderness Lodge we dined at Whispering Canyon Café where you definitely need to ask for ketchup! Inside joke here! The Whispering Canyon Café is an interactive western-themed experience with fun games and delicious food. Since I had booked this trip last minute we were not able to get a reservation at Artist Point which is Story Book Dining with Snow White and other characters.
Value resorts only offer 1 quick service dining location and pool bars (but no indoor lounge) per each value resort. At the Wilderness Lodge you also have boat rental access, and a lake beach area (no swimming) which again are not offered at a Value. All Moderate and Deluxe pools have a slide in their main pool. Disney’s Wilderness Lodge also gains EASY ACCESS to the surrounding resorts for dining options with the boat. You can actually take the boat to the Contemporary and walk through the Grand Floridian to the Polynesian if you wanted to!
When we vacationed at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge in August of 2019 our room had a beautiful view of the Magic Kingdom Castle and we were able to view the fireworks from our room! At any of the Magic Kingdom Resorts there are areas usually on the beaches where you can view the fireworks. It was a terrific surprise and an added bonus!
More than a resort… More than a vacation….
Each time we vacation at Disney we always choose a NEW sabbatical and that always gives us the feeling of a different trip. Each resort has a different vibe and theme creating a new exciting adventure! We NEVER have the feeling of “Oh we’re doing this again” or “its the same thing again” – its a new and exciting feeling of being in that Disney bubble, escaping reality and being pampered along the way.
For Future Post-Covid Times Stay at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge when it is fully open.
Become Whisked Away Into the Savanna by staying at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge in the Jambo House.
On a budget? No problem, do not book a room with a view of the Savanna to save hundreds. There are viewing areas all over this intricately designed immersive resort. Basically dropped at the door of the resort from Disney’s transportation buses, you enter into the lobby of the lodge you instantly view the breathtaking cathedral window and you are instantly immersed in the atmosphere, and blown away by the integrated thematic African decorative details and conveniently located award winning restaurants. In addition to everything being inside, the resort is a very shaded resort; even while waiting for the busing, no matter what time of the day you are NEVER in the sun! Considered a deluxe resort but when choosing a room with no views, it is more of a moderate resort pricing. Animal Kingdom Lodge’s Jambo house offers an attractive dimly-lit ambiance with the smells of delicious food that radiates the hotel. What could be more magical then staring off into the savanna watching giraffes and zebra play right from inside your resort? Read my full review here of the Animal Kingdom Lodge! At this current time (March 2021) Animal Kingdom Lodge is not fully opened and operating to capacity – but hoping within the next year it will be! Keep checking for updates.
It is possible to stay in one of the DVC Villas at Jambo House or Kidani Village currently, but the resort itself is not fully open.
Disney Deluxe Resorts can be pretty pricey – you can always stay for LESS at a Disney World Deluxe Resort by renting DVC (Disney Vacation Club) points through an accredited DVC rental like http://www.dvcrentalstore.com and https://dvcrequest.com/ with David’s DVC Vacation Rentals.
ALWAYS CALL AHEAD TO CHECK TO SEE WHAT IS OPEN AND WHAT IS CLOSED AT YOUR RESORT OF CHOICE!
With current Covid regulations there is a lot more that is involved into going into planning your next Disney World Vacation and you need to have things planned out well in advanced.
Look out for my next recommendation coming next week!
Check out my latest post on how to pack for this coming summer travel by clicking here!
- Heading to Galaxy’s Edge at Disney’s Hollywood Studios? Ideas for Star Wars Inspired Looks
- In Honor Of May the Fourth: Celebrate With Me! Star Wars Day Inspired Clothing, Looks and Collections
- Star Wars Inspired Makeup For May the Fourth
- GIFT IDEAS FOR MOTHER’S DAY
- (no title)